Family-run businesses collaborate on customer-led innovation to improve automation, reduce downtime and drive production efficiency.
A B Graphic International (ABG) has announced the latest installation of its DigiLite converting line at Stratus Packaging’s production site in Feytiat, France. The move marks another milestone in the long-standing partnership between the two family-owned companies and highlights the value of close collaboration and customer-led development.
Stratus Packaging, a leading European label and shrink sleeve converter with seven production sites across France and Switzerland, has worked with ABG for over 20 years. More than 30 ABG machines operate across their facilities, with ABG equipment installed at every site. This latest investment supports Stratus’ ongoing strategy to boost efficiency and automation in response to labour shortages and the need for intuitive, low-training equipment that increases workforce flexibility.
Installed in April 2025, this DigiLite line features a newly integrated Digicon turret rewind -ABG’s latest enhancement, designed to reduce downtime and support higher productivity. The turret system enables smoother roll changes by assisting the operator during roll transitions without stopping production. It contributes to a more automated, high-efficiency workflow, especially valuable when staff resources are limited.
The machine includes a cantilevered 800mm unwind, a full rotary quick-change flexo unit, a semi-rotary die-cutting station and integrated waste matrix stripping. It also supports overlamination for applications such as cold foiling, super varnishing and laminate handling. Additional automation comes from AutoSlit, ABG’s automatic slitting system for rapid job changes, and iScore, which automatically sets the backscorer to reduce manual setup time. The DigiLite runs up to 90 metres per minute, making it well-suited to converters seeking speed, simplicity and flexibility in digital finishing.
Isidore Leiser, CEO of Stratus Packaging, said: “We’re always looking for ways to improve efficiency and support our operators with smart automation. Adding the turret rewind to our DigiLite line made perfect sense – it’s a practical enhancement that aligns with how we work and the challenges we face. As always, ABG listened to our needs and delivered a solution that helps us keep moving forward.
“As a family-owned business, we value relationships. We’ve worked with ABG for over two decades, and our teams know the machines well. Fewer suppliers mean better familiarity, less training and greater internal flexibility, which is more important than ever as staffing continues to be challenging.”
Matt Burton, global sales director at ABG, added: “Stratus has been a great partner for many years and their feedback has been vital in shaping the direction of our developments. The semi-automatic turret rewind is a direct response to customer needs, particularly from those managing high workloads with lean teams. It’s a great example of how we listen, collaborate and deliver meaningful enhancements.”
This latest DigiLite installation further strengthens ABG’s position as a key partner in finishing equipment for forward-thinking converters. It also reinforces Stratus Packaging’s commitment to investing in technologies that enhance productivity and help future-proof their operations.
About A B Graphic International,
Established in 1954, ABG is a market leader in digital finishing equipment. The company has nearly 500 employees worldwide, with more than 200 employed in the UK. During the course of 70 years of business, ABG has installed over 11,000 machines worldwide for 2,500 customers.
With each site being a centre for excellence for a specific range of products, ABG has manufacturing facilities in the UK, Germany and Spain. Sales and service offices are located in the UK, Germany, USA, France, Holland, Spain, and Chile with a worldwide network of distribution partners, ABG is well placed to provide comprehensive support to businesses globally.
About Stratus Packaging
Stratus Packaging is a leading player in label printing in Europe, specializing in the production of adhesive labels, shrink and stretch sleeves, IML (In-Mould Labeling) solutions, and other innovative packaging technologies. The group supports clients in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial sectors by providing customized, eco-friendly, and high value-added solutions.
With 460 employees across multiple sites in France and Switzerland, and a turnover of €90 million, Stratus Packaging focuses on innovation, quality, flexibility, and technical excellence to meet the demands of both brands and the market. To learn more, visit www.stratuspackaging.com.
Media contact I Sarah Webster Marbles I PR07777 637564 I sarah@marblespr.co.uk
Media contact I Catherine GOUJON I P +33 4 74 25 39 91 I c.goujon@stratuspackaging.com
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